Golf course in southeast Iowa gets designation

MORAVIA, Iowa (AP) — A golf course at Honey Creek Resort State Park has received an environmental designation.

The state Department of Natural Resources says The Preserve on Rathbun Lake was recently given designation as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Officials say it is one of only six golf courses in Iowa with the designation.

The designation is given to golf courses that meet certain criteria in areas such as environmental planning, wildlife and habitat management, and water conservation.

Officials say the golf course has received new additions over the last four years, including native grasses, nest boxes and brush piles. The grounds crew has also reduced use of pesticides, fertilizers and herbicides.